Poland: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Aug. 19

Severe weather is forecast across much of Poland through at least Aug. 19. Thunderstorms are forecast to break out over the coming days amid an ongoing heatwave across the country. Heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Rainfall totals of 2-4.5 cm (0.8-1.8 inches) with localized heavier amounts up to 5.5 cm (2.2 inches) and wind gusts up to 90 kph (56 mph) are possible during storms in central, southern, and southwestern regions Aug. 15. Further showers and storms are forecast across many parts of the country Aug. 16-18.

The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has issued the following weather warnings Aug. 15:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Across Opole and Silesian, most of Lesser Poland, and parts of central, eastern, and southern Greater Poland, central, southern, and western Lodz, central, eastern, and southern Lower Silesian, and southern Subcarpathian provinces.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across Kuyavian-Pomeranian, the rest of Greater Poland, Lodz, and Lower Silesian, much of Holy Cross, and parts of eastern and southern Lublin, western Masovian, eastern, southern, and western Pomeranian, western Subcarpathian, and central and eastern West Pomeranian provinces.

Officials will likely update and/or extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

The storms could produce heavy precipitation and strong winds across affected areas. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flash and areal flooding in affected areas. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Disruptive weather may cause delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or strong winds, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.